Notepad: Jason Kreis, May 30 – Sylvan Lake Park

In the midst of a six-game winless run, Orlando City will look to end the month of May on a winning note when it welcomes DC United on Wednesday at Orlando City Stadium.

On Tuesday ahead of their game against Ben Olsen’s team, Orlando head coach Jason Kreis emphasized the team is determined and willing to snap its skid with a win against DCU, but refuted any declarations that Wednesday’s match is a must-win game.

“Must-win nothing, there’s 34 games in the season. Our objective is clear, our objective is to be better than we were last year and for one point better than we were last year, we’re a playoff team,” Kreis told reporters. “That’s our objective… for us to be focused on being ultra negative when things go wrong, or ultra positive when things go right is a mistake.”

The Lions (6-5-2, 20 points) haven’t won a game since their 2-0 win over Colorado Rapids on April 29.

Kickoff at downtown is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

Here’s more from what Kreis had to say on Tuesday:

On Larin’s scoring slump

One goal in sevens games has been the current form Orlando striker Cyle Larin has been on.

For Kreis, it’s no time to panic and putting much of the focus on the drought isn’t helping either. There’s no room to bring him down, says the Orlando City coach.

“We say continue to work the way you have, and the goals will come,” said Kreis. “He’s getting chances, we’re getting lots of goal scoring chances, we’re doing a lot of things right. At the moment, we’re a little unfortunate to not make the plays at the most critical moments.”

Larin scored during the team’s 2-2 draw against Sporting Kansas City on May 13, but hasn’t scored in the following three games after.

Small notes

Orlando City captain Ricardo Kaka will not be available for Wednesday’s game against DC United, Kreis confirmed with reporters. According to Alicia DelGallo, the Brazilian injured his right calf during the NYCFC game on May 21.

First-team players Pierre Da Silva and Richie Laryea are on Kreis’ radar after a slew of impressive performances for Orlando City B.

Kreis on Rafael Ramos performing at OCB and return to first team: “From a playing standpoint, I believe he’s heading in a very positive direction and should be available soon.”